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Pre-arrival guide

All set for your study abroad adventure in Scotland? Nothing beats being well-prepared.

Here, you’ll find out what you can do to get ready before you join us at University of Stirling International Study Centre. Our friendly team will be there to provide all the support you may need.

What do I need to do before starting at University of Stirling International Study Centre?

Secure your place by accepting your offer and paying your fees through INTOPay – our safe online payment system. 

  • You can pay by credit card, debit card or bank transfer. 

  • You’ll receive a link to INTOPay and instructions on how to use the system in your offer letter.

  • Remember to reference your application ID when you pay via INTOPay. 

Watch our videos to learn about your offer of study and how to pay your fees, with simple step-by-step guidance.

All students must have full travel, medical and health insurance while studying with us in the UK. Unless proof of suitable insurance is provided during the application process, Uniplan Insurance will automatically be added to your fees.

To receive your timetable and start your classes, ensure that you've paid your fees and that you're officially enrolled.

Most international students need a visa to study in the UK. Once you’ve accepted your unconditional offer and paid your deposit, we'll provide the documents you need to apply for a visa. We recommend that you apply as soon as possible.

From 2025, most students will receive an eVisa when they successfully apply for a visa – this is a digital record of your immigration status. eVisas are replacing physical immigration documents including biometric residence permits (BRPs) and visa vignettes.

Remember to check if you need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge – this gives you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). You can check how much you’ll need to pay by using the UKVI calculator.

Find out more about the Student visa, including how to apply.


What is an eVisa?

Your eVisa is an online record of your UK immigration status, which you can access through a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.

Before travelling to the UK, you should:

  • create a UKVI account

  • link your current passport

  • access your eVisa to check your details are correct. Report incorrect eVisa information to UKVI as soon as possible

  • understand how to generate an eVisa share code.

Find out more about eVisas, or watch UKVI’s videos about eVisas.

Book your flight(s) and plan your arrival to coincide with your accommodation start date.

Submit your flight details, including arrival date and flight number(s), via INTO's arrival details form as soon as possible. Providing your arrival details before you travel will ensure: 

  • we can meet you as soon as you land, if you opt for an airport transfer 

  • staff will be on-hand remotely to help if any issues occur during your travels 

  • your room is ready for you to move in as soon as you get to your accommodation.

Support every step of the way

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Join an online information session

Find out everything you need to know about studying with us – from support available to what student life is like – in one of our live digital events.

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Discover your new home

Join the global student community in Stirling. Explore Scottish culture, sports and outdoor adventures to enjoy your student life to the fullest!

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Have a question?

Get in touch with our Admissions and Enrolment Support team by emailing UniversityofStirling-ISC@intoglobal.com – we're here to help.

Your pre-arrival questions answered

Students in Stirling enjoy the warm summers while winters can be chilly and rainy with occasional snow. Bring warm clothes, including a thick coat, hat, scarf, boots, socks and gloves. You can also buy these in shops in Stirling in case you forgot to bring them. 

Remember to only pack items that you’re allowed to bring into the UK. You can find the list of banned items on the UK Government website along with guidance on bringing food into Scotland. 

You’ll receive your academic timetable via email, at the end of your first week. You need to have paid your fees and enrolled before you can start classes.

Your first week at University of Stirling International Study Centre

During your first week, you'll take part in a range of online and in-person events. Here’s a look at what might be included: 

Have a question?

Email us at UniversityofStirling-ISC@intoglobal.com or message us directly – we’re here to support you throughout your study abroad journey.